Mount Sinabung shows renewed activity as evacuations begin in North Sumatra

Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra, Indonesia, has shown renewed volcanic activity following a period of dormancy. While large visual eruptions have not been observed recently, the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) reports critical signals, including thickening black smoke, fire points at the summit, and continuous tremors.

Rita Susilawati, head of PVMBG, warned that these signs indicate high levels of internal volcanic activity. She noted that after a four-year period of inactivity, current movements may represent the beginning of a new cycle of magma dynamics, requiring high levels of public vigilance.

In response, North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has overseen emergency handling and visited evacuation centers in Karo Regency. Authorities have prioritized evacuating residents from red zones, including Kuta Tengah village, where hundreds have been moved to shelters. The provincial government has committed to ensuring basic needs—such as clean water, food, sanitation, and adequate bedding—are met to prevent displaced residents from returning to dangerous areas prematurely.